Monday, June 11, 2012

I can't for the life of me see why the media is using the term "death" when reporting on the couple who left their young dog in a sweltering car yesterday. Today the couple has been charged, and wait for it........they face up to 6 months in jail and a $2000 fine. Not bad for a killing, and let's call it as it is....this dog was KILLED.

Even more troubling are the reported details of the case. The couple were making their way back to Sudbury after attending Woofstock, and evidently the male suspect is employed at a Pet Valu in his hometown. There can be no denial on this couple's part that they could not foresee the outcome of their neglect, especially considering the dog was in the car for roughly TWO HOURS.

Next time you think "I'll only be a minute" before completing a quick chore, think long and hard. Think about what it would feel like in 50 degree heat with no escape. Think about the 7200 seconds that this poor animal gasped for air, each second worse than the one before. Think about the dog's fear and panic as he hung on for his life, waiting for someone......anyone......to save him.

Although this case has garnered nation attention, it's a guarantee that it'll happen again. Here's my advice to you. If ever you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of coming upon a sweltering dog inside a car on a hot day, there are two steps you should take :

1. Smash
2. Worry about consequences

UPDATE : One minute after publishing this post, there's another case today. Thankfully this dog survived.